Book Review: The Devil's Right Hand

Jack Keller, a veteran haunted by his past, is working a routine
case as part of his job in 'bail enforcement'. In other words, he is
a bounty hunter, an occupation reflecting the American fascination
with the outsider; the flawed but sometimes heroic gunman who tames
the west or goes after the bad guys without the benefits - or
constraints - of membership in a police force.

Jack does not reflect on the mythology surrounding his job. As far
as he is concerned, he is merely tracking down a minor criminal, the
kind of wrongdoer who muddles through life without much ambition or
forethought. Engaging in crimes without first thinking through what
might ensue is dangerous. It can result in the criminal - and
everyone around him - plunging into violent chaos. Jack's target
- and therefore Jack - become embroiled in a series of unexpected
and violent events as a result of the hapless scofflaw committing
yet another crime - and this time, biting off far more than he can
chew.

The criminally-inclined thoughtless small fry are well portrayed,
both in their impulsive and poorly planned approach to crime and in
their distracted and feckless lifestyle. The more professional and
even more vicious criminals, and the often untrustworthy police play
important roles in the story, as do the women in Jack's life.

The plot is fast-paced, punctuated with violent confrontations. The
action is not the only strong point of the novel, as the
interactions among the characters are realistic and convincing. This
is an impressive debut novel.

Cheryl - RAM

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author,
Cheryl - RAM

Please Note: Books reviewed are usually provided by the publisher, author, or an agent. Reviewers usually get to keep the book.